- 5 weeks ago
Category
🎥
Short filmTranscript
00:02After being reborn, I decided to write my sister's name on the marriage application.
00:06This time, I would help Sebastian Holt achieve his wishes.
00:09I personally helped my sister Vivian try on the wedding dress,
00:11adjusting the veil with a soft smile.
00:13Vivian, you look beautiful.
00:15Sebastian will be stunned when he sees you.
00:18I let her wear the wedding dress first and slipped the engagement ring onto her finger myself.
00:22Vivian looked at me with surprised eyes.
00:24Rachel, how can I possibly accept this?
00:26This is your wedding.
00:28You and Sebastian?
00:28Sebastian, I smiled softly.
00:30Of course you can.
00:31You two are the ones who are truly meant to be together.
00:33I personally orchestrated every encounter between Sebastian and my sister.
00:37When he took her to the capital city, I stood at the door and said calmly,
00:40Go ahead, Seb.
00:41Take Vivian with you.
00:42She's never been to the capital before.
00:44I'll be fine.
00:45When he took her to the capital city, I headed to Southport University without a second thought.
00:49In my previous life, even when I was over 50 years old, he and our son still knelt before me.
00:54Sebastian's voice was hoarse as he begged,
00:55Rachel, please sign the divorce papers.
00:59I've suffered for too many years.
01:01Our son Albert lowered his head.
01:03Mom, you're inferior to Aunt Vivian in every way.
01:06Just let Dad go.
01:08This time, I would fulfill his long-cherished wish and give him the romance he truly desired.
01:17Just fill in your name and give it to me.
01:20Sebastian Holt impatiently tapped the table.
01:22I stared at the marriage application, my fingertips gently rubbing the rough edges of the paper as my thoughts drifted.
01:28In my previous life, I solemnly filled in my own name as if I were handling a sacred decree,
01:32then excitedly dragged Sebastian to buy our wedding things.
01:34All I ended up getting was a harsh scolding from him because he was rushing back to take care of
01:38Vivian Hayes during her period.
01:40Now I just responded dismissively.
01:42I got it.
01:42I glanced up at his anxious expression and that hand that kept checking his watch.
01:46He was wearing a white shirt today with sleeves rolled up to his elbows, revealing his well-defined forearms.
01:50I remembered that Vivian loved this look on him most.
01:53She said it made him look clean and refreshed.
01:55I said, suppressing the bitterness rising in my heart while feigning nonchalance.
01:59If you use him urgent to mentally, go ahead.
02:01I'll samly back tinger to deceasers.
02:03Don't worry.
02:04Since we're getting married, I'll take responsibility for you.
02:06But stop being jealous of Vivian from now on.
02:08If others find out, it'll damage her reputation.
02:22He said nothing more and hurriedly turned to leave.
02:25I took a deep breath, trying to calm my erratic heartbeat, but my mind could not stop replaying scenes from
02:29my previous life.
02:30On our wedding night, he used the excuse of caring for my sick sister and never came home.
02:34Later, when his military posting required relocation, he only took Vivian along, saying she had never been to the capital
02:40before.
02:41Even on the day our son was born, Sebastian was not available as he was busy comforting Vivian through her
02:45divorce.
02:46Right up to my deathbed, our son Albert Holt still earnestly pleaded,
02:49Mom, just divorce Dad.
02:50You're inferior to Aunt Vivian in every way.
02:52Dad has suffered by being with you all these years, so let him go.
02:55I lay weakly in the hospital bed, my body frail and trembling.
02:58Turning my head with great effort, I looked at my indifferent husband sitting beside me.
03:02My voice was hoarse and barely above a whisper.
03:05Sebastian, do you also think this way?
03:07Do you also believe I've made you suffer all these years?
03:10Sebastian remained silent.
03:12He didn't look at me.
03:13His eyes stayed fixed on the floor, his face expressionless.
03:15The long, deathly silence was his only answer.
03:18Tears slipped from the corners of my eyes.
03:20With the last bit of strength I had, I said softly,
03:22I understand.
03:24I bit down hard on my lower lip until I tasted blood, then slowly released it.
03:28No, I would not repeat the same mistakes in this lifetime.
03:49I picked up the pen and slowly wrote two words in the applicant column.
03:53Vivian Hayes.
03:54Since Sebastian loved Vivian so much, he should have it his way.
03:57I handed the completed application to the clerk, took the marriage certificate,
04:00and left the city clerk's office.
04:01I felt no sadness instead.
04:03There was an indescribable sense of liberation.
04:05In my previous life, Vivian and I were adopted by the Holt family
04:08after our parents died in the line of duty.
04:10Vivian had a silver tongue and knew exactly how to charm people,
04:13winning over Sebastian's parents so completely
04:15that they treated her better than their own daughter.
04:18Mom, you treat me even better than my own mother did when she was alive.
04:22I'm really so lucky to be your daughter in this lifetime.
04:25Dad, I heard you haven't been feeling well lately.
04:27This is especially for you, the soup.
04:28You have to drink a few more bowls, okay?
04:30I hope you stay healthy and strong.
04:32Sebastian's mother, Penelope Cain,
04:33even harbored early hopes of having Vivian marry Sebastian.
04:36However, with just one simple statement from Vivian,
04:39Sister is my only family.
04:42I don't want to compete with her.
04:43She managed to make Sebastian willingly choose me instead.
04:46In reality, Vivian was just stringing Sebastian along.
04:49After all, Sebastian was merely a captain at the time.
04:51She wanted to wait for someone better.
05:12She actually didn't stay with my sister and came back specially to accompany me.
05:17Will she get angry?
05:18Sebastian naturally wrapped his arm around her waist,
05:20his palms slowly sliding down the side of her waist,
05:22his tone low and intimate.
05:24Is her anger important?
05:25Every time you get your period, your face turns pale from the pain.
05:28How could I possibly leave you alone at home?
05:30His fingertips traced lazy circles around her waist dimple.
05:33Vivian's body trembled slightly, but she didn't pull away.
05:36Instead, she leaned even closer into his embrace,
05:38a hint of triumph flashing in her eyes.
05:40Then, Sab, after you marry my sister,
05:43will you still treat me this well?
05:45Will you stop wanting me?
05:46Sebastian lowered his head to look at her.
05:48His hand slowly traveled upward from her waist,
05:50tracing inch by inch along her spine,
05:52finally stopping at the back of her neck where he gently pinched it.
05:55Silly girl.
05:56Who else would I treat well if not you?
05:58If your sister dares to bully you, I'll divorce her.
06:00Do you believe me?
06:02Vivian's cheeks flushed red.
06:03She glared at him coquettishly and reached out as if to push him away,
06:06her palm pressing lightly against his chest,
06:08but without any real strength.
06:09Cateful, what are you saying?
06:12Who wants you to get a divorce?
06:13I took a deep breath, composed myself,
06:15and walked into the house as if nothing had happened.
06:18Sebastian and Vivian both froze on the spot.
06:20They stared at me with faces full of shock and disbelief.
06:22You, why are you here?
06:30I'm just checking on Viv because she wasn't feeling well.
06:33I hummed indifferently and turned to head to my room.
06:35In my previous life,
06:36I fought with him countless times over their inappropriate intimacy.
06:39In this lifetime, I refused to waste my time and energy.
06:41He called out to me from behind.
06:43Seeing my calm and indifferent reaction,
06:45his face instantly darkened.
06:46Unable to maintain his composure,
06:48he spoke with a mix of shame and anger.
06:50You don't need to be jealous of your sister!
06:52If I really wanted to marry her,
06:54I would have done it long ago.
06:55You wouldn't even be in the picture.
06:58I stopped in my tracks,
06:59turned around, and looked at him.
07:01My expression remained completely calm
07:02without the slightest ripple.
07:04Hmm, you're right.
07:05So you don't need to explain anything to me either.
07:08Rachel, how about we buy some wedding favors
07:10to distribute to the other military wives
07:12in the housing complex?
07:13I looked at him with surprise,
07:14then realized this was probably his way
07:16of compensating for my unusual silence.
07:18No need.
07:19There's no point in such formalities.
07:28He was stunned,
07:29probably finding it hard to imagine
07:30I would refuse such a proposal.
07:32Are you angry because Seb took care of you, Rash?
07:34Vivian emerged from her room
07:35with a face full of grievance and innocence.
07:37She was wearing the dress I had bought explicitly
07:39for our wedding photos,
07:40something I saved up half a year for
07:41in my previous life,
07:42but never dared to wear even once.
07:44Seeing my gaze,
07:45Vivian frantically explained,
07:46I saw this beautiful outfit by your bedside today
07:48and wanted to try it on.
07:49I forgot to change out of it.
07:51She lowered her head,
07:53wringing her fingers like a child
07:54who had done something wrong.
07:55Sebastien instinctively began.
07:57Rachel, don't.
07:58I interrupted him calmly.
07:59It looks good on you.
08:00Keep it.
08:01I've never worn it anyway.
08:02I still remembered the faint smell
08:04of blood and sweat on that dress
08:05and how I ran home crying
08:07in the middle of the night.
08:08The memory disgusted me now.
08:09Under their astonished gazes,
08:10I returned to my room
08:11and locked the door.
08:20I pulled out the folder
08:21containing my acceptance letter
08:22from Southport University.
08:24In my previous life,
08:25I wanted to live in Southport.
08:26Especially Southport University
08:27offered my dream major
08:28in finance and economics.
08:30In my past life,
08:31I gave up my education
08:32to support Sebastian
08:33and willingly stayed home
08:34to care for his parents.
08:35This time,
08:35I still had a chance,
08:36so I wanted to live only for myself.
08:38I flipped through the calendar.
08:39Looking at the marked date,
08:41I whispered softly
08:41to myself.
08:42Only ten more days.
08:44Just ten days
08:45and I can finally leave this place.
08:47A sudden knock
08:48interrupted my thoughts
08:49and I opened the door impatiently.
08:50Sebastian stood there
08:51holding a bowl of noodles,
08:52his tone gentle as he said.
08:54You must be hungry.
08:55I made you some instant noodles.
08:56I was dazed for a moment.
08:58In my previous life,
08:59he was either cold as ice toward me
09:00or only spoke harshly.
09:01I had not seen Sebastian
09:02acting this tender
09:03and affectionate in a long time.
09:04No need.
09:05I already ate outside.
09:07How is that possible?
09:09Aren't you always reluctant
09:10to spend money?
09:11His words stung.
09:26I used to be reluctant
09:27to spend money,
09:28living frugally
09:29and spending most of my
09:30part-time earnings
09:31to buy him things.
09:32Now that I was going to university,
09:33there would be plenty of expenses,
09:35so every penny
09:35needed careful planning.
09:36I looked up at him,
09:37my tone calm as I said.
09:39I remember a few days ago,
09:40I gave you the money
09:41to buy wedding supplies.
09:42You didn't seem to buy anything.
09:44Give me the money back.
09:45He froze,
09:46then awkwardly explained.
09:48That money.
09:49Well,
09:49I already bought Leah
09:50those for Viv with me.
09:51I could not help
09:51but curl my lip.
09:52How predictable.
09:53It was the same old story.
09:54Well,
09:55if there's nothing else,
09:55I'm closing the door.
09:56I want to sleep.
09:57I'll give you the money tomorrow.
09:59His tone carried some irritation.
10:01We're husband and wife.
10:02Do you really need to be so petty?
10:04I could not help
10:05but snort coldly.
10:06So after you use
10:07my hard-earned savings
10:07to buy things for someone else,
10:09I'm not even allowed
10:10to be annoyed.
10:11Knowing he was in the wrong,
10:12he still muttered stubbornly,
10:13You're so unreasonable.
10:14I could not be bothered
10:15to argue further
10:16and slammed the door shut.
10:23Over the next few days,
10:24I sold off
10:25some worthless possessions
10:26mementos
10:26from my previous life
10:27that once held meaning.
10:28Now they seemed like
10:29nothing but cheap junk.
10:30I packed them all up
10:31and sold them to a scrap dealer
10:32for a pittance.
10:33That afternoon,
10:34while continuing to pack,
10:35Sebastian appeared before me
10:36holding some money.
10:37He stiffly said,
10:38Here's your money.
10:39I took the money
10:40and nodded.
10:41Thanks.
10:41He looked at me
10:42with mixed emotions,
10:43his gaze falling
10:44on my packed luggage.
10:45I'm planning to have Viv
10:46come with me to the capital.
10:47You don't need to pack.
10:48I did not stop packing
10:49and simply nodded.
10:50He seemed unaccustomed
10:51to this attitude from me,
10:52appearing somewhat uneasy.
10:54What's wrong with you lately?
10:55You're like a completely
10:56different person.
11:03I turned around impatiently.
11:04I did not want
11:05any complications.
11:06Although Sebastian
11:07did not love me,
11:08if he discovered
11:08that Vivian's name
11:09was on the marriage license,
11:10he might very well
11:11divorce her
11:11and marry me for her sake.
11:13I wanted no further
11:13entanglement
11:14with this despicable pair.
11:15Nothing.
11:16I just want to organize
11:17my thing so I can move
11:18back to the countryside.
11:19After you go to the capital,
11:20he breathed a sigh of relief
11:21and explained,
11:22It's not that I don't
11:23want you to tag along.
11:24It's just that Viv
11:25has never seen the capital
11:26and wants to visit.
11:27I'll bring you there
11:27in a few months.
11:28I nodded absentmindedly.
11:29I still remember the day
11:30I stepped off the train.
11:31The capital was cold
11:32and magnificent,
11:33yet I stood alone
11:34at the station
11:34with a worn-out suitcase,
11:36watching him force a smile
11:37while his eyes were full
11:38of exhaustion and regret.
11:39He never once
11:40held my hand that day.
11:41In my previous life,
11:42he never sent for me
11:42for eight whole years.
11:44Only after Vivian
11:44married a high-ranking
11:45general's son from the capital
11:47did he bring me there
11:47in despair.
11:56He watched me with unease.
11:57Usually,
11:58I would talk his ear off
11:59about everything
11:59and anything
12:00when we were alone.
12:01Now that I was barely speaking,
12:02he seemed on edge.
12:04Didn't you always
12:04want to take wedding photos?
12:06Let's go to the photo studio tomorrow.
12:07That would not work for me
12:08as I planned to buy
12:09university supplies tomorrow.
12:10Just as I was about
12:11to make an excuse,
12:12Vivian walked in
12:13and affectionately hugged
12:14Sebastian's arm.
12:16Sab,
12:16what photo studio
12:17I want to take pictures to!
12:19Sebastian smiled
12:20and patted Vivian's head.
12:21Sure.
12:21We'll all go together tomorrow.
12:23You two go ahead.
12:24I have something to do tomorrow.
12:26Sebastian frowned.
12:27What could be more important
12:28than taking wedding photos?
12:29Let's take the photos first.
12:31Then I'll go shopping with you.
12:32His tone was firm
12:33and did not allow for refusal.
12:34Vivian pooted playfully.
12:36Exactly, Ratch.
12:37You're not avoiding this
12:37because of me, are you?
12:38I did not want to argue further
12:39and agreed to go.
12:45Early the next morning,
12:46I heard Sebastian
12:47coaxing Vivian
12:48to get out of bed
12:48in gentle pleading tones
12:49from her room.
12:50The circle on the calendar
12:51reminded me
12:52that there were four days left.
12:56In four days,
12:57I could completely
12:58escape this life.
12:59Just when my patience
13:00was wearing thin,
13:00they finally emerged
13:01from the room,
13:02taking their sweet time.
13:03Sebastian attentively
13:04took some water
13:05and personally washed
13:06Vivian's face.
13:07Lost in thought,
13:08I watched as Sebastian
13:08approached me awkwardly,
13:10clutching a ring.
13:11Mrs. Gilbert reminded me
13:12to buy you a wedding ring.
13:13Here it is.
13:14I did not take it.
13:15In my previous life,
13:16this ring never existed.
13:17The moment Vivian saw it,
13:18she pooted.
13:19It's so pretty!
13:20I want one too!
13:21I generously offered.
13:22Then take it.
13:23Sebastian's face darkened
13:24immediately.
13:25Stop fooling around.
13:26This is our wedding ring.
13:28Vivian snatched the ring
13:29and slipped it onto her finger,
13:30waving it at Sebastian.
13:31Seb, does it look good on me?
13:32Sebastian gazed at Vivian
13:33with pure adoration,
13:35nodding with a foolish grin.
13:36Then he turned to me guiltily
13:37and whispered,
13:38I'll buy you another one next time.
13:45I nodded indifferently.
13:46I had heard his promises
13:47countless times,
13:48yet he never kept them.
13:50At the photo studio,
13:51Vivian went first,
13:52even taking several couple shots
13:53with Sebastian.
13:54When it was my turn
13:55with Sebastian,
13:55the photographer raised his camera
13:57but awkwardly lowered it again.
13:58Oh dear, I'm sorry.
14:01I'm out of film.
14:02I secretly rejoiced
14:03while maintaining
14:03a neutral expression.
14:04Oh well, forget it then.
14:06Outside the studio,
14:07Sebastian pulled a train ticket
14:08from his pocket
14:09and handed it to me.
14:10It was a standing room ticket
14:11to the capital,
14:12departing in four days.
14:13I didn't mean to abandon you.
14:15I'll get settled first
14:16and wait for you in the capital.
14:17The journey to the capital
14:18would take three days and nights.
14:19I could not fathom
14:20how he expected me
14:21to stand the entire way,
14:22especially since there was
14:23only one military
14:24dependent slot available.
14:25Where would I even live
14:26once I got there?
14:27However, asking now
14:28would not yield
14:28any satisfactory answers.
14:30Seeing me accept the ticket,
14:31Sebastian visibly relaxed.
14:33Don't worry.
14:33Even if you don't live
14:34in military family housing,
14:36you're still my only wife.
14:37I'll treat you well from now on.
14:38I only see Vivas as a sister.
14:48Suddenly, a car shot out
14:49from around the corner,
14:50heading straight for us.
14:51Sebastian instinctively
14:52pulled Vivian into his arms
14:53and dodged to safety.
14:54In the chaos,
14:55someone pushed me hard
15:02from behind.
15:03The car was bearing down on me.
15:05My body froze in terror.
15:07Seb, watch out!
15:08The vehicle swerved sharply
15:09at the last second
15:10but still struck me,
15:11sending me flying
15:12before dragging me along
15:13the rough pavement.
15:14Intense pain exploded
15:15throughout my body.
15:16Darkness crept into my vision
15:17as cold sweat poured down my face.
15:19The driver frantically
15:20jumped out of the car,
15:21his face pale with panic.
15:22Miss, are you okay?
15:23Oh my god, I'm so sorry.
15:24I didn't see you.
15:25Someone call an ambulance!
15:26A crowd quickly gathered around,
15:28pointing and whispering.
15:29Through the sea of armlookers,
15:30my gaze fixed steadily
15:31on Sebastian.
15:32At this moment,
15:33he was still tightly holding Vivian,
15:35gently stroking her back
15:36to comfort her.
15:36He was completely oblivious
15:37to the fact that I had been hit.
15:39Seb, I'm so scared.
15:41My legs feel weak.
15:42Don't be afraid.
15:43I'm right here.
15:44Are you hurt anywhere?
15:45Let me check you properly.
15:46Perhaps he had noticed
15:47or perhaps he simply did not care.
15:48I smiled bitterly.
15:50The last trace of hesitation
15:51in my heart vanished completely.
16:01So this is what you meant
16:03by I'll treat you well
16:03from now on.
16:04Sebastian froze.
16:05He opened his mouth,
16:06then took a step forward,
16:07wanting to come over.
16:08At that moment,
16:09Vivian suddenly reached out
16:10and grabbed Sebastian's arm tightly,
16:11her voice soft and trembling.
16:13Seb, it hurts.
16:14My waist hurts so much.
16:15Sebastian's body immediately stopped.
16:17He looked back at Vivian,
16:18his expression full of concern
16:19and hesitation.
16:20In the end,
16:20he didn't take another step toward me.
16:22The driver helped carry me into the car
16:23and rushed me to the hospital.
16:25After a thorough examination,
16:26I learned it was fortunately
16:27just external injuries
16:28and minor internal displacement.
16:30I lay in the hospital bed,
16:31aching all over,
16:32yet my heart felt strangely calm.
16:34The driver,
16:34who had been waiting anxiously outside,
16:36finally came in.
16:36He looked guilty and uneasy as he asked,
16:38Miss,
16:39are you feeling a little better?
16:40Do you have any family members
16:42I can call for you?
16:42I can contact them right away
16:43so they can come take care of you.
16:44I slowly shook my head,
16:46my voice weak but calm.
16:47None need.
16:48I don't have any family.
16:49The driver was stunned for a moment,
16:50his expression turning even more apologetic.
16:52He opened his mouth
16:53but didn't know what to say,
16:54eventually just nodding awkwardly
16:56and leaving the room quietly.
16:57I lay in the hospital bed,
16:58staring at the white ceiling.
16:59A faint, bitter smile
17:00appeared on my lips.
17:07Late into the night,
17:08Sebastian walked in
17:09with a weary face.
17:10Seeing that I was awake,
17:11panic flashed across his features.
17:13Rachel, how are you feeling?
17:15Any better?
17:25I looked at him coldly without speaking.
17:26He rubbed his hands together,
17:27explaining uneasily.
17:29Viv was a bit traumatized by the shock.
17:31I've been staying with her,
17:32so...
17:33He awkwardly fell silent under my stare.
17:35Rachel, listen to me.
17:36The situation was so urgent
17:37and Viv was closer to me.
17:38I instinctively...
17:39I didn't know you would get hit.
17:40She's Devon Gat.
17:41He paused,
17:42seemingly searching for the right words.
17:43I interrupted him.
17:45When are you leaving for the capital?
17:46He answered cautiously.
17:48Tomorrow.
17:49I see.
17:50I want to rest now.
17:51Please leave.
17:52I closed my eyes,
17:53dismissing him.
17:54Sebastian wanted to say more,
17:55but he ultimately had the sense to leave.
18:24Our mom, Penelope, came to visit the next day.
18:26She carried a thermos with her,
18:27her face beaming with a smile.
18:29Rachel, dear.
18:30Sebastian asked me to take care of you.
18:42Are you feeling better?
18:45Much better.
18:46Thank you, Mom.
18:47While ladling soup for me,
18:48she chattered on,
18:48Sebastian is so glumpsy.
18:50I don't know if he take proper care of Viv.
18:52Halfway through,
18:53she seemed to suddenly realize something
18:54and awkwardly closed her mouth.
18:56Mom,
18:57Vivian's name on the AMR I-Ridge license to Sebastian.
18:59Penelope froze,
19:00taking a long moment to process this.
19:02What did you say?
19:03The marriage application I submitted
19:04had Vivian's name on it.
19:05Of course the marriage license belonged to the them.
19:07Penelope's face revealed shock
19:08before it transformed into pure joy.
19:10Rachel, you're such a good girl.
19:12I knew you were the most sensible one.
19:14She excitedly gripped my hand.
19:16Rachel, thank you.
19:18Thank you for making their happiness possible.
19:20I smiled faintly without responding.
19:42Making their happiness possible,
19:43I was only securing my own freedom.
19:45She had always favored Vivian anyway.
19:47In my previous life,
19:48despite all my devoted care for her,
19:52I left her entire inheritance to Vivian in her old age.
20:00Mom,
20:01don't tell Sebastian and Vivian about this yet.
20:03Penelope beamed.
20:03Of course, of course I understand.
20:05So,
20:07what are your plans now?
20:08I'm leaving in a few days too.
20:10Penelope wanted to ask more,
20:11but she still patted my hand gently
20:12and said with rare softness,
20:14Rachel, you've always been a good and sensible child.
20:17Mom will remember your kindness.
20:18I smiled faintly and replied calmly,
20:20as long as you and the family are well,
20:22that's enough for me.
20:23Penelope wanted to ask more,
20:24but her mind was completely occupied with their wedding.
20:26I simply closed my eyes and pretended to sleep.
20:45On the day I was discharged,
20:47I did not notify anyone.
20:48Before leaving,
20:49I wrote a letter to Sebastian.
20:50Sebastian,
20:51by the time you read this letter,
20:52I'll already be on a train heading south.
20:54I know you've always loved Viv,
20:56so I'm making your wishes come true.
20:58Our fate together has run its course.
21:00I wish you both happiness.
21:01I sealed the letter together
21:02with the train ticket to the Capitol
21:04and the marriage certificate in an envelope,
21:06then mailed it to his address in the Capitol.
21:07Dragging my suitcase,
21:08I headed straight for the train station.
21:10The air in Southport was humid and warm.
21:12I felt somewhat dazed
21:13as I stood before Southport University.
21:15Walking through the campus,
21:16I experienced a genuine sense of rebirth.
21:18During the day,
21:19I sat in classrooms,
21:20listening attentively and absorbing knowledge.
21:22At night,
21:22I worked at a small restaurant,
21:24serving tables and washing dishes
21:25until my back ached and my limbs were sore.
21:27Even so,
21:27this exhaustion felt grounding.
21:29After a month,
21:29I gradually adapted
21:30to this busy but fulfilling life.
21:32That was until I saw
21:33Sebastian downstairs at my dormitory.
21:41Rachel, why did you do this?
21:43Why did you write Viv's name
21:44on the marriage application?
21:45Why didn't you come to the Capitol?
21:47His voice was filled with anger and confusion.
21:49I looked at him coldly.
21:50I don't want a husband
21:50whose heart belongs to someone else.
21:52It's disgusting and unbearable.
21:54He stared at me in disbelief.
21:55How can you talk like this?
21:56You weren't like this before.
21:57I turned my face away
21:58as waves of nausea swept over me.
22:00I did not want to look at him
22:01for even one more second.
22:03Sebastian,
22:04I just want to study hard
22:05and start a new life.
22:06Vivian is the one
22:06you've always wanted, isn't she?
22:08You should treasure each other
22:09and stop bothering me.
22:10He ran his hands
22:11through his hair in frustration.
22:12What are you talking about?
22:13I've always treated Viv like a sister.
22:15I laughed coldly.
22:16What kind of siblings embrace
22:17and steal kisses from each other?
22:19Once,
22:19I had caught him stealing a kiss
22:21from sleeping Vivian.
22:22That tender expression
22:22was something I would never forget.
22:24A flash of shame crossed his face.
22:26Then he exploded in embarrassed anger.
22:28Rachel, stop talking nonsense!
22:30Vivian and I are completely innocent!
22:32Your so-called sibling affection
22:33disgusts me to my core.
22:35Let me go
22:35and let yourself go too.
22:37His face turned ashen
22:38and he seemed at a loss for words.
22:52I remembered when I first arrived
22:54at the Holtz as a child.
22:55The fear of being dependent
22:56on others' charity
22:57made me afraid to eat my fill.
22:58At night,
22:59when the hunger became unbearable,
23:00I would sneak into the yard
23:04to eat leaves.
23:05Sebastian had caught me once.
23:06He shared his snacks with me
23:07and comforted me.
23:08Don't be afraid, Rachel.
23:09I'll protect you from no one.
23:11That moment of warmth
23:12made me fall deeper and deeper.
23:13That was why I was still willing
23:15to marry him in my previous life,
23:16even though Sebastian
23:17did not love me initially.
23:18Over the next few days,
23:19Sebastian continued lurking
23:21around the campus.
23:21I deliberately avoided him,
23:23unwilling to have
23:24any further contact.
23:25However,
23:25I never expected him
23:26to approach the dean
23:27about having me expelled.
23:28When I was called
23:28to the dean's office,
23:29Sebastian was sitting there,
23:30looking upright and formal.
23:31Fury burned within me
23:32as I demanded,
23:33Sebastian,
23:34what exactly do you want?
23:35What gives you the right
23:36to demand my expulsion?
23:37I want you to come back with me.
23:38He stood up
23:39and walked toward me,
23:40reaching out to take my hand.
23:41However,
23:41I stepped back sharply,
23:42avoiding his touch.
23:43Go back.
23:44Go back to continue
23:45watching you and Vivian
23:46being all lovey-dovey.
23:52His face stiffened
23:53and he exploded in embarrassment.
23:55Rachel, stop talking nonsense!
23:57We are husband and wife after all.
23:59What's the point
23:59of your running off
24:00to Southport like this,
24:01making us live apart indefinitely?
24:03I was almost amused
24:03by his shamelessness.
24:04Sebastian, Vivian is your wife.
24:06Her name is on the marriage certificate
24:07and she's the one you love.
24:09His face turned livid
24:10as he said through gritted teeth.
24:11That was a mistake.
24:12Mistakes should be corrected.
24:14My past behavior
24:14made you misunderstand me.
24:15I won't act that way anymore.
24:17My heart turned cold.
24:18Those familiar words.
24:19He had said the same thing
24:20in my previous life,
24:21yet he still turned around
24:22and carried on intimately
24:23with Vivian.
24:23I turned to the dean,
24:24speaking earnestly.
24:25Mr. Anderson,
24:26I truly want to continue
24:27studying here.
24:28Please don't make me withdraw.
24:29Caleb Anderson looked at me,
24:31then at Sebastian.
24:31He pondered for a moment
24:32and said,
24:33Mr. Holt,
24:34since you have no relationship
24:34with Rachel,
24:35you cannot process her withdrawal.
24:36I finally breathed
24:37a sigh of relief.
24:38Sebastian wanted to say more
24:39but was interrupted by Caleb.
24:41Mr. Holt,
24:41if there's nothing else,
24:42please leave.
24:43I have work to handle.
24:50In the following days,
24:51Sebastian continued to haunt me
24:52like a persistent ghost.
24:54His harassment was unbearable
24:55and affected my study efficiency.
24:57What made it even worse
24:57was that Vivian came too.
24:59Seb, please,
25:00let's go back and get a divorce.
25:01I don't want this.
25:02I don't want to steal
25:03my sister's husband.
25:03I'm a terrible person.
25:05She tugged at Sebastian's sleeve,
25:06sobbing uncontrollably.
25:07Sebastian held her tenderly
25:08in his arms,
25:09gently patting her back.
25:10Viv, sweetheart,
25:11don't cry.
25:11This isn't your fault.
25:14We'll go back right now.
25:15It's my fault
25:15for making you suffer.
25:16Vivian cried pitifully
25:17and made a show
25:17of kneeling before me.
25:18Rach, I'm sorry.
25:20Please don't be angry with Sab.
25:21I know you misunderstood
25:22my relationship with him.
25:24Don't kneel.
25:25It's my fault
25:26for making you suffer.
25:27We'll go back right now.
25:28He even glared at me,
25:29his eyes seeming to accuse me
25:30of being unreasonable.
25:31More and more students
25:32gathered around,
25:33pointing and whispering.
25:34I could not be bothered
25:35to watch this farce any longer
25:36and turn to leave.
25:37Let them perform
25:38if they wanted.
25:38I would not be their audience.
25:57Vivian was quite capable
25:58as Sebastian stopped
25:59coming that very day.
26:00I threw myself
26:01into my studies,
26:02joined the school's math club
26:03and met Gabriel Campbell.
26:04He was tall and lean,
26:05wore black-rimmed glasses
26:06and had a sunny smile.
26:07He excelled at mathematics
26:08and often tutored me.
26:10Gradually, we became close.
26:11Just when I thought life
26:12was finally getting back on track,
26:13Sebastian's letters
26:14arrived one after another,
26:15persistent and relentless.
26:16Rachel, are you still angry with me?
26:18I know I was wrong.
26:19Please come back.
26:20Rachel, Viv is pregnant.
26:22The child is mine.
26:23I know this is hard
26:23for you to accept,
26:24but please believe me.
26:25You're the only one I love.
26:27Rachel, surely there's
26:28a limit to sulking.
26:29What do I have to do
26:30for you to forgive me?
26:31I tore his letters to shreds
26:32and threw them in the trash.
26:33I had no idea
26:34what gave him the audacity
26:35to think I would change my mind.
26:36It was probably
26:37just thick skin.
26:56That day,
26:57the restaurant where I worked part-time
26:58was filled with cooking fumes
27:00as I efficiently cleared tables.
27:01Looking up,
27:02I saw Gabriel sitting
27:03in a corner booth.
27:03He smiled at me gently,
27:05but I avoided his gaze
27:05and continued working.
27:06When my shift ended,
27:07he was still sitting there
27:08with several untouched dishes
27:09in front of him.
27:10Let's eat together.
27:11He gestured to the seat
27:12across from him.
27:13No need.
27:13I've already eaten.
27:14I tried to decline,
27:15but my stomach betrayed me
27:16with an audible growl.
27:17He chuckled softly.
27:19Being shy won't help.
27:20Come sit down.
27:21Unable to refuse his kindness,
27:22I sat across from him.
27:23The hearty stew
27:24bubbled in the pot,
27:25its warmth dispelling
27:25the chill from my body.
27:27I ate ravenously,
27:28completely abandoning
27:28any pretense of manners.
27:30Eat slowly.
27:30No one's competing with you.
27:37Halfway through the meal,
27:38I suddenly felt something
27:39tickling my nose.
27:40Looking up,
27:41I saw Gabriel watching me
27:42with amusement,
27:42holding a small piece of carrot
27:43between his fingers.
27:44Does your face want to eat too?
27:45He teased.
27:46My cheeks flushed red
27:47as I lowered my head
27:48in embarrassment.
27:48After a moment of silence,
27:49I spoke softly.
27:50Gabriel,
27:51I know how you feel,
27:52but right now,
27:53I just want to focus
27:54on my studies.
27:55I don't want to think
27:55about anything else.
27:57Can we put everything else
27:58on hold for now?
27:59Gabriel looked at me quietly
28:00for a few seconds,
28:01his gentle smile
28:02never fading.
28:03He nodded understandingly.
28:04Of course.
28:05I respect your decision.
28:07He reached out
28:07and lightly ruffled my hair,
28:08his voice warm and patient.
28:10Focus on your studies first.
28:11I'll wait for you.
28:12There's no rush.
28:13My heart warmed slightly,
28:14but I still lowered my eyes
28:15without replying.
28:16When Christmas break arrived,
28:17Penelope's calls came
28:18one after another,
28:19each more urgent than the last.
28:20On the third call,
28:21Penelope's voice came
28:22through the phone,
28:23warm yet pressing.
28:24Rachel,
28:24it's almost Christmas.
28:26When are you coming home?
28:27The whole family
28:28is waiting for you.
28:28You've been away for so long.
28:30Don't tell me
28:30you're not coming back this year.
28:31She paused for a moment,
28:32then softened her tone
28:33with a hint of coaxing.
28:34Come back early, okay?
28:35Mom has already prepared
28:36your favorite dishes.
28:37Sebastian and Vivian
28:38are also home.
28:38It won't feel complete without you.
28:40You can't be heartless
28:41after we raised you
28:42all these years, right?
28:42After all,
28:43the Holtz had raised me.
28:44I could not be completely
28:45heartless toward them.
28:46After much deliberation,
28:47I bought a train ticket
28:48and returned to Mountain City
28:49with bags full of gifts.
28:55The moment I stepped through
28:56the Holtz family's front door,
28:57I heard sharp, harsh shouting.
28:59Sebastian,
28:59what do you mean by this?
29:01I'm carrying your child.
29:02I'm dead in it.
29:03I froze when I saw Vivian
29:04with a protruding belly,
29:05screaming at Sebastian.
29:06Sebastian's face was ashen,
29:08but he did not dare argue back,
29:09only trying to placate her
29:10in low, submissive tones.
29:11Viv, calm down.
29:12The doctor said you can't
29:13get too emotional right now.
29:14It's bad for the baby.
29:15I want that coat,
29:16and you're going to buy it
29:17for me right now.
29:18Viv, I'll buy it for you
29:19next time, okay?
29:20You've already used up
29:21this month's allowance.
29:22Sebastian carefully
29:23helped Vivian sit down.
29:24It's because you're useless.
29:25You're still just a captain
29:26after all this time.
29:28You didn't give the money
29:28to my sister, did you?
29:29Sebastian's expression changed.
29:31Viv, don't talk nonsense.
29:32I cut things off
29:33with her long ago.
29:33Cut things off?
29:34Do you think I'm stupid?
29:35You write to her every few days?
29:36Do you think I don't know?
29:38You don't have me
29:38in your heart at all.
29:39You only think about her!
29:40Vivian cried and screamed,
29:42pounding Sebastian's chest.
29:43Sebastian looked thoroughly
29:44annoyed as he roared.
29:45I told you I don't!
29:46Standing in the doorway,
29:47I found this scene
29:48absurdly laughable.
29:54In my previous life,
29:55he secretly contacted
29:56Vivian behind my back.
29:57In this life,
29:58he secretly wrote to me
29:59behind Vivian's back.
30:00He was just someone
30:00who wanted to have his cake
30:01and eat it too.
30:04The man was unfaithful
30:05to his core.
30:06Penelope was the first
30:07to notice me.
30:08Rachel, you're back.
30:09Come quickly
30:10and talk some sense into Viv.
30:11Her temper is getting
30:12worse and worse.
30:13She pulled at my hand,
30:14her tone carrying
30:15a note of flattery.
30:16I withdrew my hand
30:17and said coolly,
30:18I'm tired.
30:19I want to rest
30:19in my room first.
30:21Penelope's expression
30:21stiffened slightly,
30:22but she said nothing more,
30:23turning back to continue
30:24placating Vivian
30:25in hushed, submissive tones.
30:26She was completely different
30:27from the imperious mother
30:28I remembered.
30:29Back in my room,
30:30I pulled out Gabriel's
30:30Christmas gift from my luggage,
30:32a red cashmere scarf.
30:33I wrapped the scarf
30:34around my neck
30:34and looked in the mirror,
30:35unconsciously smiling.
30:36That evening,
30:37there was a knock at my door.
30:38I opened it to find
30:39Sebastian standing outside,
30:40looking haggard and anxious.
30:42Rachel,
30:43we need to talk.
30:44I stepped aside
30:45to let him in.
30:58He rubbed his hands together
31:00and summoned the courage
31:01to say,
31:01Rachel,
31:02you're the wife
31:02I've always wanted.
31:03I've been waiting for you.
31:05Viv's temper is getting
31:06worse and worse
31:06and she spends money
31:07recklessly.
31:08I could not help
31:09but laugh mockingly.
31:10Waiting for me,
31:11Sebastian,
31:11do you even believe
31:12what you're saying?
31:12You're waiting for me
31:13while getting Vivian
31:14pregnant with your child.
31:15What do you take me for?
31:16His face flushed red,
31:17his eyes full of panic.
31:18Rachel,
31:18let me explain.
31:19I interrupted him.
31:20There's nothing to explain.
31:22You and Vivian
31:22already have a child together
31:23so what more is there to say?
31:25I wish you both
31:25a long and happy marriage.
31:26May you be blessed
31:27with many children.
31:28He was silent for a few seconds
31:29as if remembering something.
31:30I've been having dreams lately.
31:32Dreams where you're
31:32the one I married.
31:34You were gentle and virtuous
31:35staying home to care
31:35for my parents.
31:36He paused,
31:37his tone carrying
31:37a trace of pain.
31:39But in the dream,
31:39I only had eyes for Viv.
31:41I neglected you
31:41and hurt you.
31:42I was such a bastard.
31:43I even forced you
31:44to divorce me
31:44and let go of our son.
31:45I was astonished.
31:47He was actually dreaming
31:47about our previous life.
31:48He covered his face
31:49in anguish.
31:50I wronged you so terribly
31:51and now I want to make amends.
31:56Suppressing the fury
31:57rising in my heart,
31:58my voice turned ice cold
31:59as I said,
32:00If you truly want
32:01to make amends,
32:01then live well with Vivian
32:02and stop bothering me.
32:13That's what's best
32:14for both of us, sisters.
32:15Sebastian's eyes dimmed,
32:16his voice carrying
32:17a trace of unwillingness.
32:18But I always feel like
32:19you're the one
32:20who should be my wife.
32:21My patience finally ran out
32:22and I issued a direct dismissal.
32:24Sebastian,
32:25you need to leave.
32:25These aren't words
32:26you should be saying
32:27and this isn't a place
32:27you should be coming to.
32:28He rose dejectedly
32:29and left my room
32:30with heavy steps.
32:31Watching his retreating figure,
32:32I did not feel
32:33even the slightest ripple
32:33in my heart.
32:34In both lives,
32:35he had always wavered
32:36between two women,
32:37greedily wanting
32:37to possess everything.
32:38I began to think
32:39that since Sebastian
32:40and Vivian
32:40were already living there,
32:41there was no need
32:42for me to stay.
32:43The Holtz place
32:43had never truly been
32:44my home anyway.
32:45The next morning,
32:46I packed my luggage
32:46and knocked on Penelope's door.
32:48I pressed a bank card
32:49into her hands,
32:49saying calmly,
32:50Penelope,
32:51thank you for taking care
32:52of me all these years.
32:53The money on this card
32:54is what I've saved
32:55over the years.
32:56Consider it repayment
32:56for raising me.
32:57Penelope froze for a moment,
32:58trying to refuse.
32:59Rachel, this won't do.
33:18Take it.
33:19I picked up my luggage
33:19and said flatly,
33:20I have matters to handle
33:21at school,
33:22I'm leaving now.
33:23With that,
33:23I left the house
33:23without looking back,
33:24feeling no attachment
33:44whatsoever.
33:44There was a long line
33:46at the ticket window.
33:47When I finally reached
33:47the front,
33:48there were no tickets
33:49to Southport available.
33:50The earliest ticket
33:50would not be
33:51until the day after tomorrow.
33:52I ran my hands
33:53through my hair
33:53in frustration.
33:54Where could I go now?
33:55I could not sleep
33:55on the streets.
33:56Just when I was
33:57at my wit's end,
33:57Gabriel appeared before me
33:58carrying bags and packages.
34:00Rachel.
34:00His face lit up
34:01with a delighted smile
34:02as he hurried over.
34:03I was a little surprised
34:03and greeted him
34:04with a smile.
34:05Gabriel,
34:05what a coincidence.
34:06You're from Mountain City too.
34:08Yes.
34:09What's this?
34:10Have you got nowhere to go?
34:11Gabriel's tone
34:11was full of concern.
34:12Why don't you spend
34:13Christmas Eve at my house?
34:14I froze for a moment
34:15and quickly waved my hands.
34:16That wouldn't be appropriate.
34:17Oh, what's inappropriate about it?
34:19He said with a laugh.
34:20It's just my grandmother
34:21and me at home.
34:21It's pretty quiet.
34:23Having you there
34:23would liven things up.
34:24Besides,
34:24it's Christmas Eve.
34:25I'd worry about you
34:26being all alone.
34:38He paused,
34:39then added,
34:39Please, Rachel.
34:40Just think of it
34:41as keeping my poor
34:41grandmother company.
34:43The old lady
34:43gets so bored
34:44at home by herself.
34:45His pitiful expression
34:51made me laugh
34:51despite myself.
34:52Unable to refuse
34:53such kindness,
34:54I finally agreed.
34:54As we left the station,
34:55a cold wind hit us
34:56and I could not help
34:57but pull my coat tighter.
34:58Seeing this,
34:59Gabriel immediately
35:00took off his own coat
35:01and draped it
35:01over my shoulders.
35:02A faint woody fragrance
35:03surrounded me.
35:04Cold, isn't it?
35:05Mountain City
35:05is much colder
35:06than Southport.
35:06I shook my head
35:07but warmth flooded my heart.
35:09Gabriel's home
35:09was in the old district
35:10of the city.
35:11It was a charming
35:11two-story building
35:12with traditional architecture.
35:13As soon as we entered
35:14the courtyard,
35:15I smelled the delicious aroma
35:16of roasted chicken
35:17from the oven.
35:17A silver-haired elderly lady
35:19stood at the kitchen door,
35:20smiling as she watched us approach.
35:22Gabriel, you're back!
35:24And who is this?
35:25The old lady's gaze
35:26fell on me.
35:26Then she said happily,
35:27Oh my!
35:28You brought home
35:29a beautiful young lady
35:30this year!
35:31I felt somewhat embarrassed
35:32and lowered my head,
35:33my cheeks warming slightly.
35:34Gabriel said with a smile,
35:35Grandma, this is my friend Rachel.
36:07How wonderful!
36:08Come in and warm up!
36:09Gabriel's grandmother
36:10busied herself cooking
36:11while Gabriel helped
36:12carry my suitcase
36:12to the guest room.
36:13The guest room was small
36:14but clean and tidy
36:15with bedding that smelled
36:16of sunshine.
36:17Gabriel said gently
36:17as he set down my suitcase,
36:18Rest for a while.
36:20Dinner will be ready soon.
36:21I nodded and sat
36:22on the edge of the bed,
36:23watching the snowflakes
36:24drift past the window.
36:25I felt an unprecedented sense
36:26of peace and tranquility.
36:27Perhaps this was
36:28what home felt like.
36:29That evening,
36:30we sat around the dinner table
36:31eating a steaming hot
36:32Christmas Eve meal.
36:32Mrs. Campbell continued
36:33to serve me food
36:34as she said,
36:35Rachel dear,
36:36you must visit often.
36:37My door is always open for you.
36:39I smiled and nodded,
36:40warmth filling my heart.
36:41After dinner,
36:42Gabriel suggested
36:42we take a walk
36:43in the nearby park.
37:04The winter park was nearly empty,
37:06with only a few couples
37:07huddled together
37:07enjoying the rare quiet.
37:08We strolled along the lake,
37:09neither of us speaking.
37:11Snowflakes drifted down gently,
37:12settling on us
37:13like a thin veil.
37:14I broke the silence,
37:15speaking softly.
37:16Thank you, Gabriel.
37:17For what?
37:17For taking me in
37:18and giving me a warm sanctuary.
37:20Gabriel looked at me
37:21and teased with a smile.
37:22How about repaying me
37:23with your hand in marriage?
37:24I froze for a moment,
37:25then huffed with mock arrogance.
37:26In your dreams,
37:27though I said this,
37:28ripples stirred in my heart.
37:30Then tell me,
37:30how will you repay me?
37:31I'm the hero who rescued you
37:32from dire straits
37:33at the train station.
37:34His exaggerated tone
37:35made me laugh.
37:35I deliberately put on
37:36a stern face.
37:37Hero,
37:38I think you're just
37:38trying to extort me.
37:39He pretended to think deeply,
37:40then said with mock seriousness,
37:42Let me think.
37:43How about you cook me
37:44one meal every day
37:44and school starts?
37:45I could not help
37:46but roll my eyes.
37:46No way,
37:47my cooking is terrible.
37:48He looked at me with a grin.
37:49That's okay,
37:50I'm not picky.
37:51Besides,
37:51even if your cooking is awful,
37:52I'll eat every bite.
37:53His shameless attitude
37:54made me laugh
37:54despite my annoyance.
37:55Is this how you seek gratitude?
37:57You're clearly just trying
37:58to take advantage of me.
37:58He sighed with fake disappointment,
38:00then suddenly leaned closer.
38:01I felt my cheeks burning
38:02and quickly stepped back.
38:03Maybe I should try harder.
38:05Don't get any ideas.
38:33Seeing my flustered state,
38:34he could not help but laugh.
38:36Just teasing you.
38:36He reached out
38:37and gently ruffled my hair.
38:38Come on, let's go back.
38:39Grandma will worry.
38:40Back at Gabriel's place,
38:48Mrs. Campbell had prepared hot tea
38:50to ward off the cold.
38:51Holding the warm cup
38:52and feeling the cozy atmosphere
38:53of the Campbell household,
38:54I felt some anticipation
38:55for the future
38:56for the first time.
38:57Perhaps letting go of the past
38:58and starting afresh
38:59was not such a bad thing.
39:00On Christmas Eve,
39:01fireworks blazed outside the window,
39:02illuminating the entire night sky.
39:04The deafening sound
39:05of firecrackers rose
39:06and fell in waves.
39:07Standing by the window,
39:08I felt as if I were
39:09in another lifetime.
39:10Gabriel stood very close,
39:11his warm breath brushing
39:12against my ear,
39:13making me feel tingly.
39:14Merry Christmas, Rachel.
39:15I turned my head
39:15and met his deep gaze.
39:17In that moment,
39:17time seemed to stand still
39:18and my heart skipped a beat.
39:19Merry Christmas, Gabriel.
39:21He leaned close to my ear
39:22and whispered,
39:22I like you, Rachel.
39:23Outside the window,
39:24fireworks continued to bloom,
39:25their brilliant colors
39:26reflecting on my face
39:27and on Gabriel's.
39:33Half a year later,
39:35my life at Southport University
39:36had gradually returned to normal.
39:38My grades were excellent
39:39and I even received a scholarship.
39:40Gabriel was still by my side,
39:42patient, gentle,
39:43and unchanged.
39:44That afternoon,
39:44I had just walked out of the library
39:46when I saw a familiar military vehicle
39:48parked at the entrance.
39:49Sebastian was standing beside the car.
39:50He had lost a lot of weight,
39:52with dark circles under his eyes
39:53and messy stubble.
39:53His military uniform was wrinkled
39:55and clung to his body,
39:56as if he hadn't slept in days.
39:58The moment he saw me,
39:59his eyes instantly turned red.
40:01Rachel, I was wrong.
40:02I really know I was wrong.
40:03His voice was so hoarse,
40:04it was almost inaudible.
40:06Vivian's child is gone.
40:07She lost control of her emotions,
40:08fell down the stairs,
40:09and the baby couldn't be saved.
40:10She's gone crazy.
40:11She really went insane.
40:12She smashed everything
40:13that could be smashed in the house
40:14and even grabbed a knife to attack me.
40:16Penelope was so angry,
40:17she had to be hospitalized.
40:18The doctor said
40:18it was a cerebral emperage.
40:19He covered his face,
40:21his shoulders shaking violently.
40:22I regret it, Rachel.
40:23I was wrong from the very beginning.
40:24You're the one I should have married.
40:25You're the one I should have cherished.
40:26He raised his head,
40:27his eyes bloodshot,
40:28his voice breaking with sobs.
40:29Can you give me another chance?
40:31Let's start over, okay?
40:32I looked at his disheveled, pathetic state
40:33and felt neither hatred nor pain,
40:35only complete calm.
40:36It was like looking at a complete stranger.
40:45Sebastian, do you know why
40:46I wrote Vivian's name
40:47on the marriage application back then?
40:48He froze.
40:49It wasn't because I wanted
40:50to help you two be together.
40:51It was because I didn't want
40:52to have anything to do with you
40:53ever again.
40:54My voice was soft
40:55but every word was clear.
40:56I gave you everything.
40:57And what did you give me?
40:59Indifference?
41:00Betrayal?
41:00Humiliation?
41:01I don't want to repeat
41:02the same mistakes.
41:03Sebastian's lips trembled
41:04and tears finally fell.
41:05I really know I was wrong, Rachel.
41:07I'm begging you.
41:07He wanted to say more
41:08but at that moment
41:09a hand gently rested on my shoulder.
41:11Gabriel had walked up
41:12beside me at some point.
41:13He was wearing a dark gray coat
41:14and the scarf I had given him.
41:16There was a faint smile
41:17on his face.
41:17He didn't look at Sebastian
41:18only lowered his head
41:19to look at me.
41:20It's time to eat.
41:21His tone was completely natural
41:23as if he were saying
41:23the most ordinary thing
41:24in the world.
41:25Only then did he raise his head
41:26and glance at Sebastian.
41:27His gaze was calm
41:28but polite.
41:29Hello, I'm Gabriel.
41:30If you have something to say
41:31we can talk another day.
41:32She still has class.
41:33Sebastian stared at Gabriel's
41:34hand on my shoulder
41:35his eyes practically
41:36shooting flames.
41:37Who are you?
41:37What's your relationship
41:38with Rachel?
41:39I tilted my face up
41:40smiled at Gabriel
41:40then turned to Sebastian.
41:42He's my boyfriend.
41:43We're doing very well now.
41:45Please don't come
41:45looking for me anymore.
41:47Sebastian's face
41:47turned deathly pale
41:48in an instant.
41:49He looked as if
41:49all the strength
41:50had been drained
41:50from his body.
41:51He staggered back
41:52two steps
41:52opened his mouth
41:53but no sound came out.
41:59Gabriel took my hand
42:00and we turned to leave.
42:01Behind us came the sound
42:01of Sebastian's
42:02suppressed crying
42:03broken, intermittent
42:04like a wounded beast
42:05howling in pain.
42:06I didn't turn back.
42:07Not once.
42:08Gabriel gently tightened
42:09his grip on my hand
42:10without saying a word.
42:11The setting sun
42:11stretched our shadows
42:12long and far
42:13overlapping each other
42:14as if they would
42:14never separate again.
42:16I looked up at his profile
42:17bathed in golden sunset light
42:18and suddenly felt
42:19that all the suffering
42:20of this lifetime
42:20had been healed
42:21in this very moment.
42:22Gabriel seemed
42:23to sense my gaze.
42:24He turned his head
42:24looked at me
42:25and smiled with curved eyes.
42:26What is it?
42:27I smiled too
42:27and shook my head.
42:28Nothing.
42:29Let's go.
42:29I'm hungry.
42:30He didn't press further.
42:31He simply held my hand tighter
42:32wrapping it warmly
42:33in his palm.
42:52I'll see you next time.
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